The redesigned 2009 Toyota Corolla Matrix has a lower, wider look sporty enough for drivers under 25 thanks to front and rear underbody spoilers and a spoiler mounted on the rear deck. Meanwhile, an array of D-rings and shopping bag hooks help make the interior utilitarian enough for those who have moved solidly into middle age. Drivers of all ages will appreciate the fuel economy and modest sticker price.
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Photo by Toyota
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2009 Toyota Corolla Matrix
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ABOUT THE TOYOTA COROLLA MATRIX:
Body style:
Five-door hatchbacK
Trim lines:
Standard, S, XRS
Price:
Base MSRP $16,190-$21,850, tester was $25,049
Drive:
Front wheel, all-wheel
Seating:
Two in front, three in back
Engine:
Five-speed manual; four-speed automatic; five-speed automatic
Transmission:
Four-speed automatic
21 city/29 highway
WHAT'S SPECIAL:
The Matrix is something like a compact station wagon, able to carry a good amount of cargo and still be easy to parallel park in a tight spot. There is nearly 20 cubic feet of cargo room behind the rear seats and just over 60 with both the seats down. There are four D-rings in the floor to tie down cargo. Four hooks keep plastic grocery bags from sliding around.
WHAT WE LIKE:
While it's no rocket ship, the top-of-the-line XRS trim has a bit of scoot thanks to a 2.4-liter four-cylinder providing 158 horsepower. The five-speed automatic transmission was crisp and efficient. The base engine is a 132-horsepower, 1.8-liter four-cylinder.
WHAT ISN'T THERE:
Loads of rear legroom. Sitting in the back of the Matrix requires good posture. There isn't room to slump or sprawl. Rear passengers will also get a jolt if yo
YOU OUGHTA KNOW:
Electronic stability control with traction control is standard with the XRS trim and optional on the two lesser versions. Front seat-mounted side air bags to protect the driver and front passenger are standard on all models, as are side curtain air bags that protect everyone sitting by a window.
EXTRAS:
The standard Matrix is fairly bare bones. You have to step up to the S grade to get features such as power windows and door locks. The XRS trim, however, comes complete with just about everything you need and some things you really don't: AM/FM/CD player with iPod jack, steering wheel audio controls, cruise control, 115-volt power outlet to charge your cellphone, remote keyless entry. A touch-screen navigation system is part of a $1,300 option package.
AND ANOTHER THING:
The navigation system in the test car sometimes chose perplexing routes. Good thing we already knew where the office was.
